Robert F. Minch

SUN PRAIRIE - Robert F. Minch, age 95 of Sun Prairie, passed away on Friday, May 25, 2012 at the Veterans Hospital in Madison. Robert F. Minch was born June 16, 1916 on a farm near Paoli, Wis., the youngest of three children born to Anthony and Irene Minch. He was a member of the VFW post 9362 in Sun Prairie, and past member of the ELKS in Madison. He attended St. James Grade School and graduated from Madison West High School. Bob worked for Ed Phillips and Sons for over thirty years as a truck driver and liquor salesman. He finished his working years at Duraform Co. of Madison and Windsor. On June 16, 1943, Bob was inducted in the U.S. Army Field Artillery Battalion as a Cat Driver, pulling a 155 Howitzer. He saw action in the Asiatic Pacific and the Philippines, including a month long battle in Manila. He was married to Lela Pharo Williams. They enjoyed traveling the States and cruising the Caribbean. He was a bowler and golfer, winning many trophies and medals. When his wife Lela passed away in 1999, he moved to Sun Prairie. He enjoyed riding his bike, even at the age of 94. Bob also enjoyed watching the Badgers, Packers and golf on TV. He was an avid Wisconsin Lottery player of the Badger 5. He even won the "Big One" as Bob would say. Bob is survived by his son-in-law, Charles Kerwin, of Windsor; grandchildren, Lynn, Kim and Jeff; great-grandchildren, Kyle, Ben and Hannah; daughter, Judy (Ray) Schmidt; granddaughter, Theresa (Terry) Merrill; great-grandchildren, Kristen, Meghen, Lisa and Celie. He was preceded in death by his wife Lela; daughter, Marilyn Kerwin and granddaughter, Lisa Valintine. A memorial service will be held at the VFW POST 9362, 349 S. Walker Way, Sun Prairie on Thursday, July 12, 2012 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. A military service will begin at 3:15 p.m. Casual attire please. A light lunch will be served after the service. The family would like to thank the staff at the VA Hospital for their kindness and dedication to Bob in his final days. Also, to the many friends at the VFW in Sun Prairie and Angel Park Apts. where Bob lived, for their friendship.